CCL Part 1 – Essential Training for New Carriers

Class Overview

The Illinois Concealed Carry Part 1 class is the first step toward obtaining your Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL). This course focuses on firearm safety, legal responsibilities, and marksmanship fundamentals, providing hands-on training in both classroom and range environments. Whether you’re new to firearms or refreshing your skills, this class builds a strong foundation for responsible concealed carry.

By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and practical experience needed to progress to Illinois Concealed Carry Part 2, where you’ll complete your Illinois CCL training.

What to Expect

This one-day training session combines classroom instruction with live-fire exercises. Unlike many other concealed carry courses, our program offers live range training on both days. This helps you build important firearm handling and shooting skills.

  • Classroom Instruction: Learn Illinois firearm laws, safety protocols, and proper handling techniques.
  • Hands-On Training: Engage in live-fire practice to build confidence and improve accuracy.
  • Instructor Guidance: Receive personalized coaching from experienced instructors throughout the session.

The training includes over an hour of range time on Day 1, where you will practice using the Red Dot Arms Classic Bullseye target to refine your marksmanship.

Topics Covered

Throughout the class, you will learn critical concepts that prepare you for responsible firearm ownership and concealed carry:

Firearm Safety & Handling

  • Fundamental safety rules for responsible carry
  • Safe loading and unloading procedures
  • Proper storage at home and while carrying

Legal Considerations

  • Overview of Illinois concealed carry laws
  • Understanding use-of-force laws and self-defense principles
  • Situations where carrying is prohibited

Shooting Fundamentals

  • Stance, grip, and trigger control
  • Sight alignment and sight picture
  • Recoil management for accuracy

Live-Fire Practice

  • Shooting drills to improve precision and confidence
  • Practice using Red Dot Arms Classic Bullseye target
  • Instructor-led coaching for technique improvement

Overview

The Illinois Concealed Carry Part 1 course helps you get your concealed carry license. It includes legal education, hands-on practice, and professional instruction. Students will complete their qualification test in Illinois Concealed Carry Part 2 but this course ensures you develop the necessary skills to handle a firearm safely and responsibly.

Are you ready to start your Illinois CCL journey? Sign up today to secure your spot and take the first step toward responsible concealed carry.

This class includes the following materials:

Handouts

Class Material
Class Material

Completion Certificate

Certificate of Completion
Certificate of Completion

Register for this Class

$125 Range Fee Included

Upcoming classes:

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Red Dot Arms, Training, Concealed Carry, Lake County, Chicago, Illinois, Illinois State Police SealAccreditation: Red Dot Arms provides comprehensive training classes. All instructors are certified by the NRA and the state of IL.

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Cost: $125

There is a $50 deposit that is non-refundable, but transferable.

Length: 8 Hours

This class consists of classroom instruction and range time.

Prerequisites: None

No prerequisite, but those new to firearms would benefit from Red Dot Arms Intro to Pistols.

Skill Level

Beginner
Class Goals

To teach students the basic knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for owning and operating a pistol safely.

Picture of a family

Any age may attend, but those under 18 must be accompanied by participating parent or guardian. Prospective students under 21 years of age please contact us at training@rdarms.com.

This class is not a prerequisite, but simply a recommendation.   Mouseover the box for more info!

Introduction to Pistols

$60

Recommendation

Red Dot Arms Introduction to Pistols

Things that you should bring to the class!

  • Handgun (larger than .22 recommended)
  • Ammo: 100 Rounds (please leave all ammo in the car during classroom instruction)
  • Eye & Ear Protection
  • Baseball Cap
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Lunch
Fitness is key for classes.

For the purpose of your safety and accommodating special needs participants, please contact us at training@rdarms.com if any of the following conditions apply to you:

  • Pregnancy, mental handicap, physical handicap, disabled, visually impaired, under the influence of prescription drugs, under the influence of illegal drugs and/or under the influence of alcohol
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Why do we need a hat for this class?

The hat adds extra protection from ejected cartridge cases while shooting at the range.

Why do you recommend a firearm larger than a .22 caliber for the concealed carry class?

A .22 caliber is considered inadequate for self-defense.

Do you ever teach this class during the week?

Yes, this class is offered during the week.  Please check the class schedule. Our Class Calender

Is the shooting portion of the class done at the Red Dot Arms shop location?

Classroom instruction takes place at Red Dot Arms. The shooting portion takes place at a nearby location.

Can we bring our own firearms?

Yes, but ammo is not allowed in the classroom.

Can I take this class if I do not have my own firearm?

Yes, you may take this class if you do not own your own firearm. You can rent firearms for the class. Please see gun rental tab for more information.

Do I need a holster for this class?

No, a holster is not necessary for this class.

I have prescription eye glasses, do I need safety glasses?

Prescription eye glasses are sufficent; however, we do recommend safety glasses as well.

Do you offer any discounts for veterans?

We offer this class free to all veterans and all current serving military (DD214 or service ID required).

Is this a defensive shooting class?

No, this class covers the first 8 hours required by the state of Illinois to get your concealed carry license.  Red Dot Arms Training Academy offers a variety of classes that do teach defensive shooting.

What classes cover defensive shooting techniques?

  • Personal Protection In The Home
  • Personal Protection Outside Home

Is this class accepted by other states to get non-resident permits?

The State of Florida will accept this class to apply for a Florida non-resident permit.

Disclaimer icon

Disclaimer:

FOID Statement: Illinois residents that will be TRANSPORTING their own firearm to and from the class/range must be in possession of a valid FOID/CCL card, and be of legal age, 21 for handguns, and 18 for long guns. A FOID card is not required to participate in the class. Out of state residents need to follow the age requirements and have a valid ID.

We reserve the right to dismiss any student for unsafe behavior and/or failure to follow instructions. No refund will be offered.

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